Chess Marathon in Lima: A $100,000 Prize Fund Awaits!
Lima Set to Host Epic 67-Hour Chess Marathon with $100,000 Prize Fund
Lima, Peru – Get ready for a chess extravaganza like no other! From June 25 to June 28, the Sheraton Hotel in Lima will transform into a chess battleground as WR Chess, the brainchild of Wadim Rosenstein, hosts a marathon event featuring a staggering $100,000 prize fund. This unique festival promises to keep players and spectators engaged for nearly 67 hours straight, showcasing the best of both online and over-the-board chess.
The event kicks off with a highly anticipated exhibition match between two chess prodigies: Argentina’s Faustino Oro, dubbed the “Messi of Chess,” and Mexico’s José Martínez Alcántara, known as “Jospem.” The match will feature two rapid games followed by four blitz games, with a total prize of $10,000 up for grabs. Oro, at just 12 years old, has already made headlines by becoming one of the youngest Grandmasters in history, while Martínez returns to his hometown as a celebrated speed-chess player.
A Non-Stop Chess Experience
The festival will feature eight ranked tournaments, including three blitz, two rapid, and three bughouse events, all running back-to-back. Players can participate in as many tournaments as they wish, with the overall performance contributing to a Grand Prix prize of $18,500. The blitz tournaments will run overnight from 11:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m., testing the stamina and skill of participants.
In addition to the tournaments, attendees can engage in “Beat the Grandmaster” challenges, where players can take on world-class GMs in a race against time. The simultaneous exhibitions will allow GMs to play against multiple opponents at once, with cash prizes for standout performances.
A Prize Fund Worth Competing For
The total prize fund of $100,000 will be distributed across various events, ensuring that players of all skill levels have a chance to win. Each blitz and rapid tournament offers $12,000, while bughouse events feature a $5,000 prize pool. The best female player from South America will also earn a wildcard entry into the WR Women’s Chess Tour in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
How to Join the Action
Entry to the festival is free and open to players of all ages and nationalities. Registration can be completed through the official WR Chess website, and the event will be streamed live on their YouTube channel, allowing chess enthusiasts worldwide to follow the action.
As Lima gears up to become the chess capital of the world for four days, the excitement is palpable. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious onlooker, this marathon promises to be an unforgettable experience. Let the games begin!